Qalbun Saleem: The Sound Heart and Its Eternal Journey
In the last of the deconstructed Surah Duha artworks, Qalbun Saleem, I found myself immersed in the profound weight of the final 3 verses from Surah Ad-Duha:
“So do not oppress the orphan. Nor repulse the beggar. And proclaim the blessings of your Lord.” (Qur’an 93:9–11)
This artwork is more than just ink, gold leaf, and pigment - it is a meditation on purity of heart, integrity of faith, and the endless journey we take back to Allah.
At its core stands the letter Alif, the simplest yet most powerful symbol in the Arabic alphabet. For me, it represents the direct, unbroken connection between humanity and the Divine. It’s a reminder of the straight path we are encouraged to walk - upright, unwavering, and anchored in faith.
Surrounding the Alif is a circle of calligraphy, echoing the idea of wholeness and return. Life is rarely a straight line; it bends, curves, and often brings us full circle, back to where we began but - if we allow it - with a heart more refined, more sound, more saleem. This circularity also mirrors a deeply spiritual truth: no matter how far we wander, the door to return is always open.
The verse’s message is also one of compassion and responsibility - toward the orphan, the beggar, and the vulnerable. In today’s world, where disconnection can feel all too common, these reminders hold urgent relevance. The way we care for others reflects the state of our own hearts.
Returning to the Source
As I worked on this piece, I reflected on my own personal journey of faith and caregiving. Being a full-time carer for my son has brought its own trials and blessings - moments of feeling lost, yet always guided back by Allah’s mercy. In many ways, this artwork feels like a visual dua: a prayer for steadfastness, for a heart that remains pure and connected, no matter how challenging the path.
Qalbun Saleem is an invitation - to reflect, to recalibrate, and to nurture that sound heart within ourselves. It’s a reminder that true success lies not in worldly gains, but in returning to Allah with a heart that is whole and at peace.
Coming Soon
Limited edition prints of Qalbun Saleem will be released soon, each hand-embellished with gold leaf to preserve the sacred spirit of the original. Stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks.
Whether you’re discovering Islamic art for the first time or are a long-time collector, I hope this piece brings a sense of reflection and connection into your space.
What does a sound heart mean to you? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.